Since October the Accrington Lions, supported by the Observer, has been collecting toys to distribute to some of the most disadvantaged children in Hyndburn.

Families will be invited to the Accrington Blind Society on Bank Street on Saturday, December 14 to look through the treasure trove and pick out five presents for each of their children.

Karen Duffy, volunteer with the Lions’ said: “I just want to thank everyone again, these toys will really help.

“When I have finished collecting them all this week I believe we will have in excess of 1,000.

“That means there will be 200 children in Hyndburn with five presents each on Christmas morning.” The Observer would like to share Karen's thanks as over the past two months you have dropped off dozens of games, puzzles and action figures at out Market Hall office.

On Thursday, December 5 pensioner Alex Slater dropped in to donate his grandson’s unwanted bicycle.

Alex said: “I saw the appeal in the Observer and I decided rather than sell the bike, I would donate it. It's for a really good cause and will make a good Christmas present.”